The Room Under reimagines the traffic-heavy and underutilised space beneath the Hammersmith flyover in London, transforming it into a vibrant, joyful, and multifunctional public area where human activity harmonises with ecological habitats. This design extends across the entire site, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding roads, creating an open, connected, and accessible space that invites both locals and visitors to engage with it.
The area is carefully divided into distinct “rooms,” each designed to accommodate different activities and needs. On the left side, near hedged enclosures, a triangular playground is surrounded by lush hedges, habitat panels, and trees. This space offers recreational and sports facilities, including swings and slides that extend from the flyover itself, providing a unique and playful experience.
In the central zone, a slightly sunken plaza is complemented by a lifted and extended slope, a lawn perfect for outdoor activities, and a garden, which has a great area of crushed concrete pavement to make the ground around the church breathable. This area serves as a dynamic community hub, ideal for gatherings, events, and local interactions, strengthening social cohesion within Hammersmith.
On the right side, a linear walkway designed with plant-lined walls and movable street furniture acts as a sound buffer, reducing traffic noise and pollution. The far-right corner is dedicated to a serene green space, abundant with trees and vegetation, offering a peaceful retreat for relaxation.
The Room Under is designed to evolve with the changing seasons and times of day, encouraging year-round engagement. Recycled materials from the original site have been creatively reused in the street furniture and paving, helping to soften the harsh concrete surroundings while promoting sustainability.
This project not only serves as a new community centre for Hammersmith, connecting local landmarks like the church, theatre, transport hub, and school, but also addresses important environmental issues such as biodiversity, air quality, and water management. Green spaces, along with the preservation of existing trees, contribute to a healthier urban environment. Ultimately, The Room Under fosters a dynamic, interactive landscape where public spaces and ecological habitats coexist, offering a refreshing, environmentally-conscious oasis in the heart of the city.
Winner of a Merit Award in the 2024 WLA Student Awards – Graduate category
The Room Under
Student: Han-Tse Lee, University College London.
Supervisors: Cannon Ivers, Alexandru Malaescu, Tutors, University College London
